Name That Park

Our Towns: East Windsor

August 18, 1999

What's in a name? Just about anything. If it is town property being christened, the name could suggest history, geography, heritage or future hopes. East Windsor residents have a chance to influence their town's image through a contest to name a new park. The project should have appeal for families, neighborhoods and proud citizens.

The new park is the work of the American Heritage River Committee, a group of 10 volunteers working to make East Windsor's riverfront accessible to the public. The park would be an improved version of a parcel of town-owned land beside the Connecticut River along South Water Street. It is the committee's first project and one that prompted many worthwhile ideas.

The committee is recommending a new picnic area and a gazebo on the north end. It wants to recruit residents to plant flowers. Its members envision a handicapped-accessible walkway along the riverbank and lots of trimming and clearing of overgrown vegetation. Their enthusiasm has accomplished a lot.

There's more to come. Another South Water Street site is being discussed, as well as town-owned land at the river's edge behind Winton Park. Properties on Ferry Road and on North Water Street may be considered. The deadline for naming the South Water Street park is Sept. 1. Nominations should be sent to First Selectwoman Linda Roberts.

A visit to the river might give rise to ideas: Bass Park? River's Edge Park? Canal Park? Picnic Park? East Windsor traditions might inspire creative monikers too. How about Trolley Park? Or Wolcott Park? Or Five Village Park? Then there's Millennium Park. Residents can test their creativity.

How about Volunteer Park? After all, the hard work of East Windsor residents brought the park and the river to the people.